Air Boss
$255.00

In Stock

In stock orders ship same day if received by 4:00 PM Mountain Standard Time!

One Bag Travel! Air Boss.

The only carry-on bag you'll ever need.

Designed for the business traveler, the popular five star-rated carry-on travel bag is a must-have for anyone who enjoys the many advantages of traveling light: freedom of movement, less time wasted waiting in lines, no lost luggage, easy access, and overall travel simplification. Peruse over 700 customer reviews right here from hundreds of satisfied Air Boss Carry-on customers to get an honest idea if this is the best travel bag for you.

EXPERT DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT.
Follow the link to learn Doug Dyment's bundle wrapping technique so you can fit everything you need and nothing you don't in your Air Boss airline carry-on bag to become a more organized happier traveller. Thanks to guideance from Onebag.com, here's a fantastic luggage packing diagram, showing you how to easily "bundle wrap" your clothing in the Air Boss.

WRINKLE-FREE TRAVEL.
Designed with three large main compartments, our Air Boss carry-on bag also features two outside zippered pockets; one full-length, one for your airline tickets, an outside sleeve pocket, and tie downs inside the two outer compartments to keep your belongings in position and wrinkle-free until you can unpack and hang them up at your destination.

A SPACIOUS PLACE FOR YOUR BELONGINGS.
The center compartment is spacious enough to hold your Toiletries, extra shoes, work-out gear, business briefcase, etc. Volara closed-cell foam padding is sewn into the sides, so you've got a rigid, yet flexible, piece of carry-on luggage that still protects your valuable belongings.

NEVER SLIPS OFF.
Includes detachable nonslip Claw Shoulder Strap that keeps your bag where you want it - on your shoulder.

DISCOVER HOW TO PACK IT.
Watch the Air Boss Packing Video posted in the Videos tab at left where Red Oxx Ambassador Kasey Austin shows how to use many of the bag's thoughtful features.

PROTECT YOUR LAPTOP.
Looking for extra protection for your laptop? A neoprene laptop sleeve is recommended. A "macho" option is to put it in a Metro Briefcase, which will then fit in the center compartment of the Air Boss, adding further protection and giving you a "one bag" travel option...with two bags inside one. Note that this can become a very heavy bag to carry if you decide to try this. Adding an extra Claw Shoulder Strap from your Metro and then carrying the Air Boss "backpack style" (one strap over each shoulder) can help offset this added load.

A BUSINESS TRAVEL BAG BUILT LIKE A TANK?
Our customers like to define our gear as "built like a tank". While obviously you're not going to be toting around bags that weigh 50 tons and have three inches of armor plate, still the comparison is valid. For a carry-on bag, the Air Boss is built tough. Starting with the most durable, flexible, and practical textile material available -- 1000 weight CORDURA® Brand Nylon, the Air Boss is built using super-strong UV-resistant thread that's stitched into every seam.

BOUND AND BAGGED.
Places where two separate pieces of fabric are stitched together are then bound -- that is, we take a long piece of one-inch wide nylon webbing and fold it over the edges of the two pieces and stitch them together, this creates a strong seam, known as a binding, that prevents the pieces from unraveling on the inside of the bag, or gives it a clean, finished look if on the outside of the bag.

BINDING INSIDE / BINDING OUTSIDE.
In addition, each exposed outside fabric edge, such as on a pocket flap, is also bound using a thicker binding material. Inside edges typically receive a thinner nylon webbing, whereas outside corner edges that are exposed to heavy wear have a thicker nylon binding. All of our binding material is vertically woven to prevent the fraying, peeling or splitting that you may commonly see in competitors carry-on bags that brag of "binding" their edges.

WHY DOUBLE BOX STITCHING?
Each stress point, such as where the handles attach to the bag, is double box stitched - which is where we get the "double XX" in our name, Red Oxx; a stitching practice we adapted from our history as parachute riggers.

MY, WHAT BIG ZIPPERS YOU HAVE!
The reason Red Oxx uses the largest zipper we can afford, the #10 YKK VISLON® zipper, is that they're easily repairable, even in the field; they will hold their place, that is, they "lock"; they are difficult to penetrate, thereby increasing the security of your belongings; they function smoothly in inclement weather, and they can be yanked from a variety of angles without losing teeth or becoming separated.

PUTTING THE HARD IN HARDWARE.
Red Oxx has occasionally been accused of "overdoing" our hardware. But once you've had a cheap piece of plastic "hardware" break in the middle of a busy intersection, airport or other inconvenient locale dumping your precious belongings all over the ground, having a heavy-duty nickel-plated or stainless steel D ring or attachment swivel that weighs just a tiny bit more, or might make a little noise, is a travel companion's confidence builder and peace-of-mind maker. After all, you want to enjoy your journey as best you can. Why worry about having your Air Boss break down?

IS THERE ANOTHER CARRY BAG OPTION?
Looking for a similar carry-on bag but with retractable backpack style shoulder straps? Try our other popular travel bag, the Sky Train.

Join the fleet feet crowd and travel carry-on with the Commander of the ship: the Air Boss!

PLACE YOUR ORDER TODAY!
Due to high demand, you're encouraged to place your order now to get your Air Boss on our production schedule. Your bag will then be shipped in under 14 days. Like retirement, it's worth the wait.

Online orders will receive an order confirmation email, a UPS tracking information email when your order ships and a product review request follow-up email eight weeks after delivery. In addition, backorders beyond a dozen working days may receive an order follow-up assurance email. During checkout purchasers have the option to opt-out of our quartly email newsletter. Your email address is always secure.

Air Boss Trivia:On the flight deck of an aircraft carrier, the Air Boss is in charge of all the operations of the flight deck. He controls the moving of planes on deck, landing of aircraft, launching aircraft, ordinance handling, and safety of all the personnel occupying the flight deck. The Air Boss oversees from the command tower. Orders are communicated with the flight deck via megaphone. Ex: "Hey brownshirt. Get out of that checked baggage line and on the plane, now!"

I purchased the Airboss based on its reviews, and reference from the Onebag site. I fly to Europe mostly, multiple cities at a time, at least twice a year, which is the purpose of this bag. I will use it next month for that kind of trip but last week had the opportunity to use it on a short hop to NYC. Just fantastic! Really enables smart packing, is well-designed and well-made. A joy. One has to be careful not to over-pack due to its spaciousness - can make the bag a bit heavy. To that end, maybe consider some additional padding in the handles? Great shoulder strap. Thank you for making such a great product.

Unbelievable Quality

By Pete, Northern Virginia, September 8, 2012

I've had my boss for over three years, have gone around the world and never been disappointed. If you are on the fence about the quality and craftsmanship of Red Oxx do not hesitate. Once you see how things are supposed to be made you will never look at anything else with a zipper the same again.

That being said I have done the One Bag travel many times and realize that sometimes I like to pack a little extra. This bag is perfect for trips of four or five days, especially if you need a sports coat or suit. Don't misunderstand, I have been oversees for a month with only the Air Boss and been just fine but it really is designed to fit the One Bag packing model.

You cannot go wrong with this bag but watch out because once you see the quality of this gear you may end up like me and find yourself ordering other bags too!

Just great

By Dale Athey, Newcastle-on-Tyne, UK, September 8, 2012

After a bit of research I decided to order my Air Boss. Delivery from US was no problem and it looked just great when I unpacked.

Had to wait a couple of weeks before trying out on a business trip to Germany and Austria which involved budget airline, trains, etc. Air Boss was great, and combined with the Metro was the ideal choice for this trip. Many of my travelling companions admired the bag, and I suspect there may be some further orders coming from UK in near future !

Very Happy!!

By Bill, Orlando, FL, September 6, 2012

I'm extremely happy with the bag at this point. I've only recently started traveling for business and was committed to only using carryon baggage for my week-long trips. I'm amazed at how much stuff I can fit into the bag.

I was a little surprised at the weight of the empty bag, but I haven't had an issue yet with the loaded weight. I can't wait to put it through its paces and see how it looks in the future. Keep up the good work, Red Oxx!

Pleased

By Scott Stenvold, United States, September 1, 2012

Excellent quality, GREAT shoulder strap! Nice to find a bag without those crappy wheels that are really wheels/rods/handle and take up a lot of space--not to mention the wheels don't stand up. Maybe on an airports beautifully waxed tile, but not on the concrete going to my car, pavement going to the terminal from parking lot, nor the cobblestone paving when trekking up to my sister's door in SA, TX. Oh- important: Best Zippers Ever! Finally, a very handsome bag.

Great bag but TOO heavy!

By geri, Chicago, August 30, 2012

The bag itself seems great and easy to pack - I used it for a four day trip recently. However, it is way too heavy to carry on my shoulder. I have to carry it up the steps to the L train and then when I get off the train, it's a long walk to the terminal. Then another long walk to the actual gate. Maybe there is a luggage cart you can suggest to go with it to drag it through the airport.

I'm also in agreement with the other person that I would like to add some kind of feet to bottom too. I really did not want to sit it down on the bathroom floor - yuck!

Love the bag, need a smaller strap

By Julie L., San Francisco, CA, August 19, 2012

I love the bag, its everything I expected and more. I can travel with only this one bag on 3-5 day trips, no problem. Major road-warrior love.

I do have one issue:

I'm 5"2 and the Claw Shoulder Strap doesn't shorten enough to my liking, so the bag drops to below my hip when I carry it, which is not comfortable at all. I will have to replace the strap for my ext trip (which I am loath to do because the strap provided ROCKS) for one that I can adjust to my liking.

Besides that... I have already recommended the bag (to my guy colleagues who are taller than I am).

Love the bag, need a smaller strap

By Julie L., San Francisco, CA, August 19, 2012

I love the bag, its everything I expected and more. I can travel with only this one bag on 3-5 day trips, no problem. Major road-warrior love.

I do have one issue:

I'm 5"2 and the Claw Shoulder Strap doesn't shorten enough to my liking, so the bag drops to below my hip when I carry it, which is not comfortable at all. I will have to replace the strap for my ext trip (which I am loath to do because the strap provided ROCKS) for one that I can adjust to my liking.

Besides that... I have already recommended the bag (to my guy colleagues who are taller than I am).

Nice bag

By Anonymous, Wisconsin, August 16, 2012

Used the Air Boss for the first time on a 3-day business trip. Agree with previous reviewers that the bag was a bit heavy and awkward to carry on my lengthy airport walks. Also, it did not fit in the overhead on the small plane I took for my connecting flight, but not a big deal. It did protect my laptop, which was the main reason I purchased it, and the bundling technique for packing worked great! The different compartments made it easy to organize and get through security with no problems at all.

Best Bag For the Buck

By John, Midwestern USA, August 14, 2012

I purchased this bag for a two-week tour of the Eastern US. I was driving, we had tight space and I needed something that would be versatile, tough and could hold all my clothing. On tour I carry a guitar in a case, gig case, and tool kit, along with gear for another guitar player and a third musicians as well. So space in our car was limited. For this tour I was carrying a suit, dress shirts, dob kit, bath towel, pants, jeans, socks, underwear and running clothing. All in one bag. Everything fit. Packing was easy using the suggested bundle method.

Best of all, this bag was extremely versatile and bullet proof. It was a much more efficient use of space than my wheeled carry-on size bag I'd used previously.

I have not had a chance to fly with it yet, but I can see it will be up to the task.

My only complaint is the strap is a bit lacking. It's strong and grips well, but it's not as wide as I'd like. For a carry bag, the strap could be a bit more comfortable. But that's really picking nits.

Perfect

By Anonymous, Athens, Ga, August 11, 2012

I never thought of myself as an obsessive...until I began seeking a travel bag. I own several pieces of Red Oxx, most recently acquiring an Air Boss. This bag is everything and more than I'd hoped for. Buy it; you won't be disappointed.

Red Oxx customer service is as solid as the products.

Even holds the Ukulele

By Tom Anderson, San Diego, CA, August 9, 2012

My red Air Boss was purchased after much research and on a little faith as an alternative to a wheeled carry-on. Now it has been cross country twice easily holding everything for a weeklong trip, including a rain jacket, pair of running shoes, and an ukulele in its case stuffed in the middle. The uke stuck out at the top corner but passed security and the gate without a second glance. Total weight was less than half that of my travelling companions' bags who couldn't believe that was all the luggage needed. (Too much weight added with handle and wheels.)

The side padding provides just enough protection for an eReader or iPad stuffed under clothing and the outside pockets can hold most things you might want to grab while waiting or on the plane. The bag, even when stuffed, easily slips into overhead compartments or the nose compartment of small fixed-wing aircraft. Packing is easy as the sides basically open flat and the contrasting (red) interior really helps the ability to see what is packed.

Some nit-picking detail points: for business I would recommend something a little more subdued than "arrest-me-red", but the bright colors stand out nicely to make the bag easily identifiable; the (quality) zippers will eat almost anything that get in their way; the small side pocket is deeeeep; and the shoulder strap may seem narrow at first but does a nice job of distributing weight and most importantly, does not slip!

Overall the Air Boss is an incredibly efficient design with beautiful workmanship. It may seem expensive (it's not) but this is a quality product. If you are considering a carry-on bag and know how to pack, this may be the best bang-for-the-buck around!

Two weeks in Nigeria

By Michael, Colorado, August 1, 2012

After a lot of research I found and purchased an Air Boss in the olive color in preparation for a trip to Nigeria. All the reviews indicating that an Air Boss could swallow a stack of clothes, shoes and all the other stuff we travel with turned out to be true.

I packed a pair of dress shoes, running shoes, and flips (all size 13), two pair of slacks, jeans, 3 pair of shorts, 3 dress shirts, 2 golf shirts, 2 athletic shirts, and my "smalls." There was still plenty of room for all my other stuff including a couple of gifts,10 Cliff bars and 2 bags of candy. Everything made it (even after 24 unscheduled hours at O'Hare) in ready to wear condition.

Yes, my loaded Air Boss was heavy, but not so much that I didn't feel mobile. I was worried about being able to carry it onto international flights but it never received a second glance and fit easily into all the overheads.

Great Bag!

By Peter Morgan, Toronto, July 19, 2012

I bought this bag for a recent trip to Europe, and it worked beautifully. I bundled my clothes in the way suggested and was amazed that everything came out of this relatively small bag unwrinkled and ready to wear, including a sports jacket. I ended up with three pairs of shoes in the middle section and was still a pound or so under the allowed carry on weight.

The strap could be improved. I found the bag a bit heavy when I had to walk a ways with it in airports. I've read that other straps tend to distribute the weight better...the bag could be improved with a better strap. All in all a fantastic purchase!

Happy with Choice

By Doug , Columbus, Oh, July 19, 2012

I am happy with my choice of the Airboss for my business and leisure trips. I am on the road about 50% of the time and have used the bag on trips from 1 to 3 weeks in length. (Note: I have the ability to send my clothing to the hotel cleaners so I only need to pack a weeks worth.). Quality is great and I love the fact that it is made in the U.S.A. That was one of the main deciding factors.

Only think I would add (and have added after purchase) is some kind of feet to the bottom of the bag. Sometime it is necessary to set the bag doen in the airport washrooms and I don't like setting it directly on the floor. I added some small metal feet to help keep it off the floor. Doesn't add much bulk.

Big guy, big clothes, great bag

By David, Charlotte, NC, July 15, 2012

I have just finished packing for my first trip with my new Air Boss. I have spent the last 15 years with the Sam beat up bag, that I have always checked, because I could not find that bag that worked. I have just packed for 4 days, to include shorts and shirts for the evenings and dress clothes for the day, and I still have room in the side pockets and the center pocket is empty! What a great bag. Really impressed with its quality and strength. It looks so small empty, but grows to fit.

Never traveled without wheels, so a little nervous about that. I used to carry two laptops to travel, so not worried about weight.

Well worth the money!

Yes. Yes. And, Yes.

By Aaron Taylor, , July 12, 2012

Excellent quality. Perfect size for 4-7 day trips. It just oozes efficiency. The Claw is great. I love the red colorway. Very distinct and whimsical, without being inappropriate for business travel. My only complaint is the handles should be more comfortable, but they aren't uncomfortable.

Outstanding!

By Anonymous, Scott AFB, IL, July 12, 2012

Simply the best, well thought-out, superbly made carry on available!

Truly best carry on

By Big Jim, Richmond, VA, July 3, 2012

After almost "analysis paralysis" of which bag is best for "one bag carry on travel", I chose the Airboss over the Aeronaut and a few others. I couldn't be happier with my decision.

The Aeronaut looks to be a fantastic bag ( full disclosure-I own other Tom Bihn bags and love them!) I thought that the duffel style bag may not be the best. After many trips this was easy to confirm. Duffel bags require you to remove most everything to get to anything vs the Airboss which allows for either side & the middle to "compartmentilize" your clothes- held wrinkle free in place with the straps.

The bundle method of packing is great I suppose if you want to take everything out every time you need one thing (ie sarcasm here)....... I pack 2 suits, 5 dress shirts, 5 boxers/t shirts/socks, and toiletries for week long trips in the Air Boss with some room to spare. I also wear a 52 long ( I doubt that will fit in the competition!) the quality is beyond ridiculous- this bag is so well made it actually feels like military issue.

As long as you get one of the "modest colors" you can also walk off the plane -right into a business meeting looking like you are carrying a large briefcase not a camping duffel or a wheeled suitcase. These bags rock- highly recommended!

buy it

By Jim S., Atlanta, June 23, 2012

I have had this bad about 2 years and I have waited to see how it held up before I write a review. I have taken this bag on 6 trips to Europe . After the last trip I cleaned it up a bit and it looks brand new. I like the strap and the fact I have never had a problem carrying it on any of the European discount airlines. Easy Jet, etc. are strict when it comes to carry ons. The Air Boss fits easily in the overhead. And it carrys more stuff than bags with wheels. Plus when you're up and down train platforms and walking on cobbled streets, wheels are bad news. I also own the large rucksack.

Red Oxx "No Bull" Warranty

As time rolls a ceaseless course, only the genuine guarantee remains. The mountains will persist, the oceans are bound to endure and Red Oxx will continue to be rugged, reliable, and tough.

To the depths of the Amazon basin to the peaks of the Himilayas, Red Oxx Manufacturing is infallible.

Red Oxx Bags are guaranteed forever, be sure to include them in your will.

Made in U.S.A.

Red Oxx Bags are handcrafted in Billings, Montana. U.S.A.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Air Boss carry-on legal?
Yes, the Air Boss is carry-on legal on most jet airlines.

What's the best way to pack the Air Boss?
The bundle packing method is recommended. Watch the packing video under the Videos tab or download the printable Air Boss luggage packing diagram (Pdf file).

What's the difference between the Air Boss and the Sky Train?
There are two principle differences between the Air Boss and the Sky Train: The Sky Train has retractable backpack straps and opens flat lengthwise whereas the Air Boss opens flat like a book.

Will the Air Boss fit under the seat in front of me?
Cramming your Air Boss under the seat is not recommended.

Will the Eagle Creek packing cubes fit the Air Boss?
Why not use our Nomad Shave Kit, Lil Roy Gadget Bag or Tri-fold Toiletry bag as packing cubes? You can color co-ordinate them to your preference and they come with useful carry handles. The Tri-Fold Toiletry Kit is also a brilliant shave kit organizer due to its three individual zippered mesh pockets and unique fold-open-flat hanging design.

How many pounds will the Air Boss weigh when packed?
It depends on what you pack. A typical 3-5 day load will weigh about 20-25 pounds.

How many days of travel can I fit in the Air Boss Carry-on?
Most travelers can get about 3-5 days with a typical load. Some adventurous types have been able to pack from a week to ten days! It all depends on how you pack and what you pack.

Where do I pack my laptop?
You can use the center compartment. We recommend that you use a padded neoprene sleeve to protect your laptop.

What's the best way to pack footwear?
Sole-to-sole to minimize the dirt and placed in the middle compartment inside a plastic bag.

Can I change the logo color?
Sure. Simply order your favorite color Logo Patch and sew it on yourself. Red Oxx cannot change the patch colors for you.

Can I order a bag without the logo?
Logo Patches are centered using a hole punch. If you remove the patch, there will be a hole in the bag that could cause a snag. Red Oxx cannot build a bag without a logo as this would disrupt the efficiency of the production line. Feel free to use a permanent marker to color the patches.

Is there a way to securely lock my bag?
Sure, you can use any TSA approved bag lock or try our Cable Lock for a simple, semi-secure solution. Watch this video where CEO Jim Markel demonstrates how you can use the cable that comes with the product Dog Tag price tag to secure your bag. Keep in mind, any determined thief can still cut open a soft sided bag with a sharp knife.

Are there any interior pockets?
The Air Boss has three large internal compartments. There are no internal pockets.

My zipper broke. The teeth have separated. Do I send it in for warranty repair?
No need for warranty repair, fix it yourself. Check out this video where CEO Jim Markel shows how easy it is to do it yourself.

Can you ship USPS?
Yes, Red Oxx will ship USPS upon request. Simply state, "Please ship USPS" in the cart comments during checkout and we will adjust your billing accordingly.